After winter hibernation it’s no wonder we’re desperate to show off what we’ve got. As a result, spring brings us some of the most daring looks. To stay ahead of the fashion curve for this new season here are a few items to punch up your look. Whether you’re ready to jump off the deep end with us or just want to add a little flare to your wardrobe, we’ve got it all from Grandma’s best to Batgirl-chic.
Sure it’s not practical but batgirl is a look this spring. Everywhere you turned at the world's fashion weeks this year some waif was being crushed under the weight of her jacket which was supported with nothing more than her shoulders. Wearing proper capes, or draping a coat may not allow for much gesticulation or bodily articulation (Vogue says don’t even think about hugging your friend) but, capes are bold and make a statement of chic power. Thankfully Sunday brunching doesn’t require much movement and thus lends itself perfectly to your cape aspirations. Even newly ordained Pope Francis is embracing the cape trend.
Did you buy colored jeans? Yes. You bought all the colored jeans. Great. Perfect. But now we have a new pants trend. This spring brings us tailored (non-jean) patterned pants. From legging tight Chanel-inspired houndstooth to colorful floral work pants, this item goes day to night as easy as a little black dress. They can be flirty and also, elegantly fun for work. Wear them with flats for a day out shopping or with heels and an oversized blazer for a day at the office.
Steampunk is one of the most eye-catching genres in fashion. Rooted in the Industrial Revolution and revived a century later in Japan’s whimsical world of Gothic Lolita fashion, Steampunk bridges the gap between science, technology, fashion, and fantasy. In a perfect world when Robert Downey, Jr.’s Sherlock and Tim Burton design for Oliver Peoples-For-Target, this is what you would get. In short, Steampunk is the one stop shop for the thinking woman’s fashion revolution. This spring bring your fashion IQ up a notch with these metallic, circular frames.
If Steampunk is too much of a leap for you, you can get a similar edge with another of this Spring’s trends. Rock Glam is hanging around for warmer temps this year. This typically leather-heavy trend is more for winter but who says you can’t wear your bright yellow mini skirt with some studded or buckle-laden heels?
Brocade walks a fine line. It can either say “Look, I’m a walking 200 year old tapestry” or “I must have been aristocracy in another life.” Tread lightly, it is not the easiest thing to take what was probably once the pattern on your grandmother’s living room sofa, and wear it. But if you can - own it!
Items in main photo:
Roseanna Santa Floral Brocade Jacket
WAYF Gym Pants
VTG Style Round Lens 90s Steampunk Glasses
Spring and summer are always my favorite seasons when it comes to accessories. I think it’s the warm weather and the lack of clothing that make the choice of a hat or a cool pair of sunglasses so much more noticeable and appealing. I also think the rise in temperature is a perfect time to be a bit more daring in your style choices and pick pieces that really show off your personality.
Accessories for 2012 are all about bright colors, comfortable classics and bold statements….some maybe even mixed together into one ensemble. Here are a few must-haves. BONUS: they are all super affordable!
A colorful scarf/wrap- J-Crew $49.50
Who says scarves are just for the winter?? By choosing one in a bright color and a breezy fabric, they are a perfect way to add a bit of pop to an outfit. Try pairing one with all white look for something classy enough for work but playful enough for lunch with friends. Click here.
A Classic Fedora- Urban Outfitters $24.00
If you only have one hat in your closet make it this one! It’s perfect for a day at the beach or for those days where you don’t want to fuss with your hair. Not only is it classic and chic it also shades your face from the sun! Get it here.
A Bold clutch- ASOS $32.72
A simple clutch in a bold neon or sherbet color is perfect for a night out! Not only does it catch people’s attention but it also helps with transitioning those cool weather fabrics and colors into outfits you can wear all year long. No more waiting until next year to wear your long sleeve black mini! Here it is.
Aviators- Ray Ban $195.00
If there ever was an accessory that can pair with anything, it’s the aviator. Neutral enough to wear with classic pieces, edgy enough to pair with a leather jacket and simple enough for a day of site seeing or while laying on the beach. Wear with jean shorts, a flowy tank and some sandals for effortless chic! Click here!
Tribal Necklace - Nordstrom $88.00
Tribal designs are really hot in 2012 and I must say that it’s a trend I hope sticks around. They make great statement pieces and can take a solid plain tee into high fashion territory. I would be careful though, one piece is usually enough to look great, while too much can look like you’re early for Halloween! Get it here.
A Colorful Watch- Anne Klein $55.00
Watches are one of my favorite ways to add color to an outfit. They are slightly unexpected and are almost always appropriate. The one shown here combines a great nautical look with a bright orange. Pair with boyfriend jeans, flats and a white tee for a weekend outfit people will covet. Snag this one here.
Spring is just around the corner which means it’s time to start thinking about fabulous weather, bold accessories, SHOES, fashion and the season’s hottest nail colors and trends. Let’s face it, nothing can make or break an outfit like your nails. Last season, everyone was in a frenzy about, dark grays, different shades of blue, brown and let’s not forget about the shatter polish everyone was rocking. This season is all about bold and vibrant colors, nail art, green, glitter and metallic.
Go Green!
Going green has never been easier as it will be the hottest nail color for the season. Stick to softer shades of green like pistachio, mint and sage. Although these are softer shades of green, they will certainly stand out and make a bold statement with any outfit.
Peppermint Patti- MAC $16.00 Navigate Her- Essie $8.00
Creamy Neutrals and pastels
Each season has a natural option. During the fall and winter seasons, the neutral options are typically black, brown, navy and gray. This spring, stick to pale pinks, sheer beige and shades of nude that are close to your skin tone to pull off a flawless and classic look.
Mod about you-OPI $8.00 Sandpiper- MAC $16.00 Cream Tea- Butter London $14.00
Bold Brights and Neons
Nothing says “Spring is Here!” better than bright bold colors. This season try tangerine, fuchsia, chartreuse and coral. Bold nails are a great way to spice up an outfit as an added pop of color. Also, try matching your nail color to your lipstick or shoes when wearing a neutral outfit as a fun color accent.
Tour de Finance-Essie $8.00 Did It On ‘Em- OPI Nicki Manaj $7.00 Truly Tangerine-Orly Nail Lacuer $6.99
Nail Art
Take a walk on the wild side this season with some nail art. You can add cheetah print, stripes, circles, lace, tie dye and so much more with Sally Henson’s Nail Effects. They are strips of nail polish that are applied like stickers and then are shaped to your nails. The best part is that there is no dry time so you can jump right back into your busy schedule without waiting around for your nails to dry. If you’re not that adventurous, try adding rhinestones, a small design or two tones to your nails which is a sure way to spruce up a basic manicure while expressing your fun personality.
Nail Pen Art-Sally Henson $7.99 Nail Effects-Sally Henson $7.00
Glitz and Glitter
Add a little sparkle to your manicure with glitter polish this season. Although glitter has been around for many seasons, it’s been updated with new shapes, sizes and colors for spring 2012.
Save Me-OPI Nicki Minaj $7.00 Rainbow Connection-OPI $7.00 DS Temptation-OPI $7.00
So many colorful options to choose from! Do you have a style or nail trend that you are excited to try this spring? Tell us about it in the comments below!
made woman everywhere
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